Why Los Blancos Possess 'Complete Confidence' in Teenager Thiago Pitarch
When an teenage makes Real Madrid a historic moment in a crucial European match against City, it naturally attracts acclaim and attention.
During his first start in the tournament - and fifth game for the team - Thiago Pitarch suitably impressed as the 15-time European champions secured a 3-0 round of 16 first leg advantage at the Bernabeu.
The teenager, who also had his Real debut in the play-off round a few weeks prior with a substitute appearance at Benfica, then assisted Los Blancos defeat the English Premier League side in the midweek return to confirm a quarter-final place.
At 18 years old, Pitarch was the team's youngest player to start twice in the Champions League knockout stages, surpassing star Vini Jr's previous mark by 10 days.
A Meteoric Rise Through The Academy
The midfielder is the most recent to emerge from the club's academy and is quickly establishing himself as one of the manager's most promising young players.
He joined Madrid from Leganes in 2023, having previously been with Atletico Madrid and Getafe's academies, and starting out for the Juvenil C team, where he rapidly created a strong impression.
Pitarch progressed to the reserve side and it was in a friendly match in which they played against the senior squad, then managed by Arbeloa, where the youngster is said to have drawn the eye of the current Real boss, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January.
Reports would later describe the moment as "an instant connection," noting he excelled not only for his technical ability, but for the energy, personality and determination he brought to the side.
'His Greatest Quality Remains His Personality'
In the summer of 2025, ex-manager Xabi Alonso invited Pitarch to train with the senior squad and awarded him playing time during pre-season.
However, it was Arbeloa's appointment that proved the defining moment in his career as he was introduced as a late substitute in both ties against the Portuguese side that led to the meeting with Pep Guardiola's team.
"I have dreamed of this each night when sleeping, the first day I started playing the game, every day you head to training and every day you have a game," said the player following his debut.
"I have just fulfilled my dream with the greatest club in the planet and in the top tournament."
Given a first start in La Liga against Getafe - where he was for several seasons after moving from Atletico in 2018 - he has retained his place for the following four as injuries to Jude Bellingham and Dani Ceballos provided an opening.
The teenager has seized it with performances that have belied his youth and inexperience.
"He's a extremely fast player, and you can observe what he's capable of," said Arbeloa. "He's extremely dynamic, with great stamina, effort and mobility."
Pitarch's mentality has also impressed his coach.
"His standout trait is his personality," added he. "He always wants the ball, and even under pressure, he doesn't feel it.
"I realize people are astonished to watch him make his debut in a European fixture, but he's playing because I had complete trust in him to do what he usually does.
"Thiago will continue to get opportunities with the first team. It is delightful to have a player like him."
A Future International Decision
Born in a Madrid suburb, in the Madrid region, and was raised deeply involved in the local game, moving through youth setups before entering Real Madrid's famous youth academy.
He possesses dual Spanish and Moroccan nationality, giving him the option to represent either country at the highest level.
According to international regulations, footballers may appear for multiple nations at junior level without being permanently tied, with the ultimate choice only binding once they play in a competitive full international.
Pitarch has featured for the Spanish national team at underage levels, representing both the U19 and under-20 teams, and participated in the 2025 Fifa Under-20 World Cup, where La Roja made it to the quarter-finals.
Despite this, he has not yet decided to either full national side, who are watching his progress with interest.
In a recent interview, the player said: "I haven't made my ultimate choice yet. Things are positive with the Spanish federation, but I will reach a decision in the near future."
This scenario mirrors that of other bi-national players such as Real team-mate Brahim Diaz and Barca star Lamine Yamal. Whereas 18-year-old Yamal opted for Spain, Diaz decided to represent the Atlas Lions.
Focus on the Future
At present, his attention is on establishing himself in the Madrid lineup and rewarding Arbeloa's faith.
He featured for 74 minutes in the 2-1 victory at the Etihad, which completed a five-one aggregate success and a last-eight tie with the German champions.
His substitution by another academy player in Angel underscored Arbeloa's trust in the next generation to help the team chase trophies to come.
After his notable contributions to date on European football's biggest stage, Pitarch is expected to be a central figure in that.
"The manager treats me the identical way. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much - I have to deserve my playing time on the field," he said after the win at Etihad Stadium.
